Open House London

When

20th – 21st September 2008

Where

London, various locations. See feature for more info.

Open House London is a far reaching architecture and design event, inviting Londoners of all ages to explore the architectural depth of London over a weekend in September. Visitors can discover the secrets of buildings throughout the capital in an engaging series of Open House free events, open to all.

Discover Open House London
Londoners have the opportunity to go deep into the structural history of the capital and discover the secrets of architecture up close and personal. A diverse range of buildings will be on show throughout the Open House weekend, opening their doors for free visits. Architecture fans will not want to miss the chance to explore London in all its glory, in a world renowned architecture festival.

A history of Open House
Open House London has taken place for a number of years, having gained popularity as a definitive London architecture and design event. This year nearly 700 buildings across London will open their doors to the public, giving you the chance to go behind the scenes. Walks, talks, tours and special activities add to the fun of the weekend, giving you a chance to explore the history of some of the most fascinating buildings in London in a uniquely interactive way.

Hidden gems
All manner of buildings will be on display during the Open House weekend, including private residences, historic government buildings, modern offices, art spaces, City banks and schools, to name a few, offering a unique insight into the future of London architecture during September. Some of the buildings sure to be on the to do list of many architecture fans during the weekend are places like St Saviours Church, Eltham, built in the German expressionist style; Grand Designs house 15 1/2 Consort Road; adn Watermen's Hall, which is the only Georgian Hall in the City of London.

Open House special events
Amongst all the Open House activities and tours taking place in September, there are a few special events which stand out in the architecture festival programme. Maggies' cancer charity are holding their annual Night Hike on Friday 19th September, and the walk will leave from City Hall taking in 20 miles of some of the most stunning buildings in London. The refurbishment of the Royal Festival Hall will be looked at one year after its completion with a special talk on Thursday 18th September, and you can be there to hear all about this well loved buildings redesign.

A weekend of design
The Open House London Weekend takes place exclusively over one weekend packed with architectural fun in the capital. Expect plenty to see and do throughout the weekend at one of London’s biggest free events, returning for 2008 in a huge showcase of modern and historic design.

Open House London takes place from Saturday 20th – Sunday 21st September 2008 at locations throughout London. The event is free to attend, though some viewings require advance booking.

Open House London Official Website